Fabrizio Romano reveals when the FA is expected to make a decision on the new England manager

Gareth Southgate’s resignation as England manager following the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain has sparked debate over his possible successor. Southgate’s tenure has been marked by mixed reactions.

Although criticised for his conservative playing style and failure to make the most of a talented squad, he led England to two major finals, Euro 2020 and Euro 2024. However, both finals ended in disappointment with losses to Italy and Spain respectively.

Several well-known names have been mentioned as possible successors, including Pep Guardiola, but also lesser-known names such as Graham Potter and Gary O’Neil.

Lee Carsley himself emerges as a candidate after impressing with early results

Lee Carsley, who was appointed interim manager while the FA searches for a permanent replacement, has now emerged as a possible candidate himself.

He impressed with his early results, leading England to comfortable victories against Ireland and Finland in the Nations League group stage.

Carsley’s bold decisions, such as making Trent Alexander-Arnold his preferred right-back over Southgate’s previous choices, have paid off, with Alexander-Arnold delivering two Man of the Match performances. In addition, his ability to get the best out of midfielder Angel Gomes, a player overlooked by Southgate, has been widely praised.

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Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano explained the FA’s search during his appearance on The Debrief Podcast.

According to Romano, the FA still see Pep Guardiola as their dream candidate, but the prospect of luring him away from Manchester City remains unlikely. This leaves more realistic options, including Graham Potter and several other suitors, in the mix.

He said:

“Look, candidates, there are candidates. There are dreams like Pep Guardiola. We know it’s been mentioned several times and he remains the dream candidate for them. Then there are more realistic candidates like Graham Potter or others. So there are several candidates for this job.”

“But at the moment I can guarantee that the internal conversation is not in the final phase. So they are still talking internally, still giving Lee Carsley time to develop his ideas, to show his ideas. Internally, for example, what he did in the first few games with, for example, Angel Gomes, a player who was never considered (under Southgate), was really appreciated.”

“So they want to give him some time and then take the time to decide. Now we have two international breaks coming up, in October and November. Then it’s time to make a decision. Then let’s see what path they’re going to take. At the moment nothing has been decided, but as far as candidates, there are certainly several.”

With several names in the squad and Carsley’s strong start, the FA face an interesting decision in the coming months.